Cameroon’s official currency is the CFA Franc, which equals 100 centimes. The easiest way to get money is by exchanging cash, especially euros. Traveler’s checks can be difficult to cash and credit card acceptance is limited.

Cameroon’s international country code is 237. You can call another country from within Cameroon by dialing 00 and the appropriate country code. You can access the web from internet cafés in main towns.

Be aware of your surroundings while traveling in Cameroon. There have been many incidents of mugging, robbery and carjacking, some of them armed and deadly. Avoid the Meiganga-Ngaoundere road the Belel area. You should also be cautious and aware of the increased risk of crime in the area surrounding the Mount Febe Hotel in Yaounde.

Diarrhea is the most common complaint of Cameroon travelers, so watch what you eat and drink and avoid the tap water. Malaria prevention is recommended for travel throughout the country. Consult with your doctor about getting recommended vaccinations against Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, yellow fever, polio, meningococcal diseases and rabies. Cholera outbreaks occur regularly, especially between December and June. Do not bathe or swim in stagnant, fresh water as there is a risk of bilharzia. HIV/AIDs infections are common. Make sure you have health insurance, including emergency air evacuation since medical facilities are often under-stocked and outdated. Medical professionals usually expect immediate cash payment for care provided.

A New England native but explorer at heart, Melisse has lived in four U.S. cities, spent a summer in Hawaii, made her way through wine-producing regions in Australia and New Zealand, and traveled around Europe while studying abroad in London. She is the Content Manager for the U.S. and Canada at Cheapflights.